Dads, dens and bugs at childrens centres

A father and daughter identify bugs at Meanwood Sure Start Centre.

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There was fun for young explorers and their dads at two of Rochdale's Sure Start Children's Centres last week.

At the Meanwood centre families came together for some fresh air and outdoor activities, while tent building and bug searching were the order of the day for dads and children time at Howard Street.

Everyone put on their garden gloves at Meanwood and chose a gardening tool before going digging for mini beasts and creatures in the soil. There was chance for a closer look under the magnifying glass, seeing how many different creatures could be found, how many legs they had and where they liked to live.

Next was den making out of large pieces of fabric, masking tape and bamboo canes which involved the whole family in a team effort.

Undetered by the rain, children also enjoyed the climbing area and an area with musical instruments for plenty of noise.

Parent Empowerment Worker Tracie Taylor said: “We had lots of fun on Saturday morning. We are holding more events at the weekends to encourage dads who might be working in the week to come along and enjoy some time with the children, although this event was for the whole family.”

Mum Alison Ogden came along with dad Graham and their daughter Jasmine. She said: “We all had a fabulous time on Saturday despite the weather! Looking at creepy crawlies and tent making took Jasmine’s dad back to his youth (and that was some time ago!) I’d like to say a big thank you to the staff for a great time.”

At Howard Street, Scout Master from Syke Chapel, Len Toolan, brought tents and instructed the group on how to put them up. After making their shelter, it was time to have a look at the local wildlife. Children and their dad’s hunted the woodland around the Howard Street centre for bugs and used their magnifying glasses to get a closer look. Everyone learnt lots about the different creatures.

After all their hard work they were treated to a healthy tea of jacket potatoes and cheese and fresh fruit.

The aim of the activity was to encourage more dads along to the centre and to spend some quality time with their children in a fun, safe environment.

The next dad’s event will be a Summer Fun Beach Party on Monday 10 August. All dads are welcome to come along with their children. Activities are aimed at children aged 0 – 5, but older siblings are also welcome. For more details, give the children’s centre a ring on 01706 646103 to find out more details or call in.